Read this in The Manila Times digital edition.
IN June, I had a long hiatus from writing my Sunday column because there were other commitments that must be fulfilled. It was good to take a break, after that anxiety-raising and tension-filled national elections in May. It was very challenging to stay as calm as possible when I related with friends, neighbors and relatives whose political views were different from mine to avoid losing their friendship and trust. I kept reminding myself and others in my circle that the elections were not worth losing our friends and loved ones — because politicians who won or lost in the electoral races, will not remember most of us. They are grateful alright, but they will not recall all those who were out campaigning and risking their lives in bad weather, road mishaps and the continuing pandemic. Enough about the elections — the majority has chosen, and many of us have witnessed last Thursday's proper turnover of responsibility by the popular outgoing President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (PRRD), to President Bongbong Marcos (PBBM), our new head of state. The latter gave an upbeat speech during his inauguration about what to expect from his leadership. He amplified his campaign message of unity with a clear agenda for action. He has also chosen impressive men and women for his Cabinet. I am looking forward to a compassionate, responsive, efficient and effective governance in the next six years, akin or even better than PRRD's leadership.
